Ransomware Research

KKK Ransomware

KKK is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on June 1, 2017, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide.

Quick facts

Ransomware Family
KKK
First Seen
June 1, 2017

How KKK ransomware works

File encryption patterns

KKK modifies encrypted files using specific patterns to mark them as encrypted:

Extensions added after encryption
.KKK

Ransom note and payment demands

After encrypting files, KKK displays ransom notes demanding payment for file recovery:

message
notes/note.txt
Location: OnceOnCompletion
fileREAD_IT.txt
notes/READ_IT.txt
Location: Desktop

Technical indicators

Associated executable files

The following executable files are associated with KKK ransomware:

About this analysis

This KKK ransomware analysis is part of Elastio's comprehensive ransomware detection database. Elastio provides advanced ransomware protection and recovery, helping organizations defend against and recover from ransomware attacks like KKK.

Last updated: December 30, 2025

Detection coverage

Elastio detects KKK inside your data and backups.

The Hunt Engine uses Deep File Inspection to identify KKK across live data, replicated data, and backups. If this family is in your environment, Elastio finds it before encryption completes. Run a scan against your recovery points to confirm.

See How the Hunt Engine WorksRequest a Demo

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